Our view: Let the NBA do its work

Published 9:05 am, Tuesday, April 29, 2014

The NBA’s investigation is not yet finished, but in the arena of public opinion, Los Angeles Clippers’ owner Donald Sterling has already lost.

Basketball fans across the nation are angry. His head coach, Doc Rivers, along with the team’s players, have voiced strong displeasure with what Sterling allegedly said about black people in a private voice recording with his ex-girlfriend.

Sterling, in so many words, is alleged to have said that he didn’t want his ex-girlfriend to bring black people to Clippers’ games. He also was unhappy that his girlfriend was photographed with Magic Johnson, who is black, according to the recording.

Sterling, who is Jewish, is being labeled a racist by fans and athletes across the nation.

NBA icons such as LeBron James and Michael Jordan have weighed in with strong words, condemning him. Magic Johnson said he refuses to attend another Clippers’ game as long as Sterling owns the team.

At this point, Sterling’s best option might be to speak openly about this issue, and take on all questions from his critics. He already has lost all respect from those in the NBA who believe it was his voice on that recording.

He very well might deserve all the criticism. Based on what is currently known, we can certainly understand the outcry. But we also believe it would be best to allow the NBA do its work, and give Sterling a chance to speak for himself and address these accusations. That’s the right thing to do.